ZEB1 expression in type I vs type II endometrial cancers: a marker of aggressive disease

Polyphyllin I Inhibits the Metastasis of Cervical Cancer Through the Regulation of the β-Catenin Signaling Pathway

Cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most prevalent cancer and cause of cancer-related mortality among women globally. It exhibits a recurrence/metastasis rate of approximately 30% and a dismal 5-year survival of only 17% in metastatic cases. Despite significant advancements in surgical techniques, chemoradiotherapy, and targeted therapies, effective treatment options for metastatic cervical cancer remain limited. This study explored Polyphyllin I (PPI), which is a monomeric compound derived from the Rhizoma of Paris Polyphyllin, as a potential inhibitor of cervical cancer metastasis. Mechanistically, PPI directly interacted with β-catenin at the Ser552 site, inhibiting its phosphorylation and subsequent nuclear translocation, thereby suppressing TCF/LEF transcriptional activity and downstream EMT transcription factors (ZEB1, Slug, Snail, and Twist). Notably, PPI promoted β-catenin degradation via the autophagy-lysosomal pathway, as confirmed by CHX chase assays and the detection of the p62 and LC3 proteins, without altering the mRNA levels of β-catenin. In vitro experiments demonstrated that PPI effectively suppressed the migration and invasion of HO-8910PM cells by reversing the process of EMT. Additionally, PPI effectively inhibited TCF/LEF signaling, leading to a reduction in the transcription levels of EMT-associated transcription factors (EMT-TFs), which was mediated by the TCF/LEF family downstream of β-catenin. Furthermore, PPI exhibited inhibitory effects on proliferation, migration, and invasion in both HPV-positive (SiHa) and HPV-negative (C33A) cervical cancer cells. In vivo, PPI significantly suppressed peritoneal metastasis in a luciferase-labeled HO-8910PM xenograft mouse model. These findings reveal the dual role of PPI in blocking β-catenin signaling and inducing β-catenin depletion, thereby effectively restraining metastatic progression. This study underscores the potential of PPI as a promising therapeutic candidate for targeting cervical cancer metastasis through autophagy-mediated β-catenin regulation, offering a novel strategy to address current treatment limitations.

Dualistic role of ZEB1 and ZEB2 in tumor progression

It is generally accepted that ZEB1 and ZEB2 act as master regulators of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, which arguably is the key mechanism of metastasis. Accordingly, they are deemed as negative predictors of the survival of cancer patients by promoting the emergence of secondary foci of the disease. Paradoxically, in some types of cancer types the opposite effect is observed, i.e. ZEB1 and ZEB2 are associated with better prognosis for cancer patients. In this review, we discuss the hypothesis that the tumorigenic effects of ZEB1/ZEB2 can be different in various tissues depending on the initial status of these proteins in the corresponding healthy tissues. Emerging evidence suggests that ZEB1 and ZEB2 are constitutively expressed in several healthy tissues, performing vital functions. Consequently, reducing the expression of ZEB1 and ZEB2 could negatively affect these tissues causing various diseases, including cancer. Finally, the dualistic role of ZEB1 and ZEB2 as immune modulators and their effect on tumor microenvironment is also discussed.

Metastasis and chemoresistance in breast cancer: Crucial function of ZEB1/2 proteins

Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. While advancements in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapies have significantly improved breast cancer treatment, many patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, where tumor cells exhibit aggressive behavior and therapy resistance. Understanding the mechanisms driving breast cancer progression is therefore critical. Metastasis is a major factor that drastically reduces patient prognosis and survival, accounting for most breast cancer-related deaths. ZEB proteins have emerged as key regulators of cancer metastasis. Beyond their role in metastasis, ZEB proteins also influence drug resistance. This review focuses on the role of ZEB1 and ZEB2 in regulating breast cancer metastasis. These proteins interact with components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) to drive cancer progression and metastasis. Additionally, ZEB proteins regulate angiogenesis through interactions with VEGF. Targeting ZEB proteins offers potential therapeutic benefits, particularly for aggressive breast cancer subtypes such as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which often show poor therapeutic response. ZEB proteins also influence the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to chemotherapy, making them promising targets for enhancing treatment efficacy. Given their upregulation in breast cancer, ZEB proteins can serve as valuable diagnostic and prognostic markers.

Micro- and Macronutrients in Endometrial Cancer-From Metallomic Analysis to Improvements in Treatment Strategies

Endometrial cancer is reported to be one of the most prevalent cancers of the female reproductive organs worldwide, with increasing incidence and mortality rates over the past decade. Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment. Recently, there has been a growing focus on the role of nutrition and micronutrient and macronutrient status in patients with gynecologic cancers, including endometrial cancer. In the following paper, we have conducted an in-depth narrative literature review with the aim of evaluating the results of metallomic studies specifically concerning the micro- and macronutrient status of patients with endometrial cancer. The main objective of the paper was to analyze the results regarding the nutritional status of endometrial cancer patients and describe the role of chosen elements in the onset and progression of endometrial carcinogenesis. Further, we have focused on the evaluation of the usage of the described elements in the potential treatment of the abovementioned cancer, as well as the possible prevention of cancer considering proper supplementation of chosen elements in healthy individuals. Calcium supplementation has been proposed to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer, although some studies offer conflicting evidence. Deficiencies in phosphorus, selenium, and zinc have been inversely associated with endometrial cancer risk, suggesting they may play a protective role, whereas excessive levels of iron, copper, and cadmium have been positively correlated with increased risk. However, the molecular mechanisms by which these elements affect endometrial carcinogenesis are not fully understood, and current findings are often contradictory. Further research is needed to clarify these relationships and to evaluate the potential of nutritional interventions for the prevention and treatment of endometrial cancer.

Utilising deep learning networks to classify ZEB2 expression images in cervical cancer

Aims/Background Cervical cancer continues to be a significant cause of cancer-related deaths among women, especially in low-resource settings where screening and follow-up care are lacking. The transcription factor zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2) has been identified as a potential marker for tumour aggressiveness and cancer progression in cervical cancer tissues. Methods This study presents a hybrid deep learning system developed to classify cervical cancer images based on ZEB2 expression. The system integrates multiple convolutional neural network models-EfficientNet, DenseNet, and InceptionNet-using ensemble voting. We utilised the gradient-weighted class activation mapping (Grad-CAM) visualisation technique to improve the interpretability of the decisions made by the convolutional neural networks. The dataset consisted of 649 annotated images, which were divided into training, validation, and testing sets. Results The hybrid model exhibited a high classification accuracy of 94.4% on the test set. The Grad-CAM visualisations offered insights into the model's decision-making process, emphasising the image regions crucial for classifying ZEB2 expression levels. Conclusion The proposed hybrid deep learning model presents an effective and interpretable method for the classification of cervical cancer based on ZEB2 expression. This approach holds the potential to substantially aid in early diagnosis, thereby potentially enhancing patient outcomes and mitigating healthcare costs. Future endeavours will concentrate on enhancing the model's accuracy and investigating its applicability to other cancer types.

Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy-Based Detection of EMT-Related Targets in Endometrial Cancer: Potential for Diagnosis and Prognostic Prediction

Epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) is one of the important mechanisms of malignancy in endometrial cancer, and detection of EMT targets is a key challenge to explore the mechanism of endometrial carcinoma (EC) malignancy and discover novel therapeutic targets. This study attempts to use surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), a highly sensitive, ultrafast, and highly specific analytical technology, to rapidly detect microRNA-200a-3p and ZEB1 in endometrial cancer cell lines. The silver nanoparticles were decorated with iodine and calcium ions, can capture the SERS fingerprints of microRNA-200a-3p and ZEB1 protein, and effectively avoid the interference of impurity signals. At the same time, the method has high sensitivity for the detection of the above EMT targets, and the lowest detection limits for microRNA-200a-3p and ZEB1 are 4.5 pmol/mL and 10 ng/mL, respectively. At the lowest detection concentration, the method still has high stability. In addition, principal component analysis can not only identify microRNA-200a-3p and ZEB1 protein from a variety of EMT-associated microRNA and proteins but also identify them in the total RNA and total protein of endometrial cancer cell lines and normal endometrial epithelial cell lines. This study modified silver nanoparticles with iodine and calcium ions and for the first time captured the fingerprints of EMT-related targets microRNA-200a-3p and ZEB1 at the same time without label, and the method has high sensitivity and stability. This SERS-based method has immense potential for elucidating the molecular mechanisms of EMT-related EC, as well as identifying biomarkers for malignant degree and prognosis prediction.

Exploring ncRNA-mediated regulation of EGFR signalling in glioblastoma: From mechanisms to therapeutics

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most prevalent and deadly primary brain tumor type, with a discouragingly low survival rate and few effective treatments. An important function of the EGFR signalling pathway in the development of GBM is to affect tumor proliferation, persistence, and treatment resistance. Advances in molecular biology in the last several years have shown how important ncRNAs are for controlling a wide range of biological activities, including cancer progression and development. NcRNAs have become important post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression, and they may affect the EGFR pathway by either directly targeting EGFR or by modifying important transcription factors and downstream signalling molecules. The EGFR pathway is aberrantly activated in response to the dysregulation of certain ncRNAs, which has been linked to GBM carcinogenesis, treatment resistance, and unfavourable patient outcomes. We review the literature on miRNAs, circRNAs and lncRNAs that are implicated in the regulation of EGFR signalling in GBM, discussing their mechanisms of action, interactions with the signalling pathway, and implications for GBM therapy. Furthermore, we explore the potential of ncRNA-based strategies to overcome resistance to EGFR-targeted therapies, including the use of ncRNA mimics or inhibitors to modulate the activity of key regulators within the pathway.

An insight into the diagnostic, prognostic, and taxanes resistance of double zinc finger and homeodomain factor's expression in naïve prostate cancer

Currently, clinical biomarkers are urgently needed to improve patient management to guide personal therapy for cancer. In this study, we investigate the deregulation of Zeb-1 in prostate cancer (PC) Tunisian patients. Expression patterns of the Zeb-1 were investigated in prostate adenocarcinoma and benign prostate biopsies using quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and 2-ΔΔCt method. Statistical analysis was used to identify differences across groups depending on gene expression level. Furthermore, we exploited a follow-up over 15 years to correlate Zeb-1 deregulation and clinical outcomes in PC patients. Based on ROC curve analyses, the AUC was found in discriminating PC patients from controls (AUC = 0.757; p < 0.001). In addition, the higher expression level was significantly associated with PSA, Digital Rectal Examination, Gleason score, tumor stage, and distant lymph node metastases. Moreover, Zeb-1 overexpression was correlated with shorter overall survival (OS) (p = 0.042), poor progression-free survival (PFS) (p = 0.007), and with resistance to taxanes (p = 0.012). Our data provide the aberrant expression of Zeb-1 in PC patients suggesting its potential diagnostic, prognostic, and theranostic role. Further functional studies are mandatory to strengthen these results and to uncover the molecular mechanism of this neoplasm.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-024-03941-8.

In Silico and In Vitro Mapping of Receptor-Type Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Receptor Type D in Health and Disease: Implications for Asprosin Signalling in Endometrial Cancer and Neuroblastoma

BACKGROUND

Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Receptor Type D (PTPRD) is involved in the regulation of cell growth, differentiation, and oncogenic transformation, as well as in brain development. PTPRD also mediates the effects of asprosin, which is a glucogenic hormone/adipokine derived following the cleavage of the C-terminal of fibrillin 1. Since the asprosin circulating levels are elevated in certain cancers, research is now focused on the potential role of this adipokine and its receptors in cancer. As such, in this study, we investigated the expression of PTPRD in endometrial cancer (EC) and the placenta, as well as in glioblastoma (GBM).

METHODS

An array of in silico tools, in vitro models, tissue microarrays (TMAs), and liquid biopsies were employed to determine the gene and protein expression of PTPRD in healthy tissues/organs and in patients with EC and GBM.

RESULTS

PTPRD exhibits high expression in the occipital lobe, parietal lobe, globus pallidus, ventral thalamus, and white matter, whereas in the human placenta, it is primarily localised around the tertiary villi. PTPRD is significantly upregulated at the mRNA and protein levels in patients with EC and GBM compared to healthy controls. In patients with EC, PTPRD is significantly downregulated with obesity, whilst it is also expressed in the peripheral leukocytes. The EC TMAs revealed abundant PTPRD expression in both low- and high-grade tumours. Asprosin treatment upregulated the expression of PTPRD only in syncytialised placental cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that PTPRD may have potential as a biomarker for malignancies such as EC and GBM, further implicating asprosin as a potential metabolic regulator in these cancers. Future studies are needed to explore the potential molecular mechanisms/signalling pathways that link PTPRD and asprosin in cancer.

ZEB1 Is Regulated by K811 Acetylation to Promote Stability, NuRD Complex Interactions, EMT, and NSCLC Metastasis

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition results in loss of specialized epithelial cell contacts and acquisition of mesenchymal invasive capacity. The transcription repressor zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) binds to E-boxes of gene promoter regions to suppress the expression of epithelial genes. ZEB1 has inconsistent molecular weights, which have been attributed to posttranslational modifications (PTM). We performed mass spectrometry and identified K811 acetylation as a novel PTM in ZEB1. To define the role of ZEB1 acetylation in regulating function, we generated ZEB1 acetyl-mimetic (K811Q) and acetyl-deficient (K811R) mutant-expressing non-small cell lung cancer cell lines (NSCLC). We demonstrate that the K811R ZEB1 (125 kDa) has a shorter protein half-life than wild-type (WT) ZEB1 and K811Q ZEB1 (∼225 kDa), suggesting that lack of ZEB1 acetylation in the lower molecular weight form affects protein stability. Further, the acetylated form of ZEB1 recruits the nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase (NuRD) complex to bind the promoter of its target genes mir200c-141 and SEMA3F. RNA-sequencing revealed that WT ZEB1 and K811Q ZEB1 downregulate the expression of epithelial genes to promote lung adenocarcinoma invasion and metastasis, whereas the K811R ZEB1 does not. Our findings establish that the K811 acetylation promotes ZEB1 protein stability, interaction with other protein complexes, and subsequent invasion/metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma via epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition.

IMPLICATIONS

The molecular mechanisms by which ZEB1 is regulated by K811 acetylation to promote protein stability, NuRD complex and promoter interactions, and function are relevant to the development of treatment strategies to prevent and treat metastasis in patients with NSCLC.

ZEB1-activated Notch1 promotes circulating tumor cell migration and invasion in lung squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is recognized as the major subtypes of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are critical players in tumor metastasis. A molecular profiling of CTCs has previously identified notch receptor 1 (Notch1) as an important mediator in NSCLC. Therefore, we investigate Notch1 roles in LUSC and its related mechanisms.

METHODS

The serum levels of Notch1 were measured by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The CTCs isolated from blood samples were characterized via an immunofluorescence method. Cell motion was determined using Transwell chambers. The regulatory relationship between Notch1 and zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) was verified by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and luciferase reporter assays. The protein levels were detected by western blotting.

RESULTS

Higher Notch1 expression in patients with LUSC than that in normal controls was observed. Notch1 knockdown inhibited cell motion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). ZEB1 transcriptionally activated Notch1. ZEB1 upregulation exacerbated the malignant phenotypes of CTCs.

CONCLUSION

ZEB1-activated Notch1 promotes malignant phenotypes of CTCs in LUSC and indicates poor prognosis.

Regulation of ZEB1 Function and Molecular Associations in Tumor Progression and Metastasis

Zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) is a pleiotropic transcription factor frequently expressed in carcinomas. ZEB1 orchestrates the transcription of genes in the control of several key developmental processes and tumor metastasis via the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The biological function of ZEB1 is regulated through pathways that influence its transcription and post-transcriptional mechanisms. Diverse signaling pathways converge to induce ZEB1 activity; however, only a few studies have focused on the molecular associations or functional changes of ZEB1 by post-translational modifications (PTMs). Due to the robust effect of ZEB1 as a transcription repressor of epithelial genes during EMT, the contribution of PTMs in the regulation of ZEB1-targeted gene expression is an active area of investigation. Herein, we review the pivotal roles that phosphorylation, acetylation, ubiquitination, sumoylation, and other modifications have in regulating the molecular associations and behavior of ZEB1. We also outline several questions regarding the PTM-mediated regulation of ZEB1 that remain unanswered. The areas of research covered in this review are contributing to new treatment strategies for cancer by improving our mechanistic understanding of ZEB1-mediated EMT.

Usefulness of microRNA detection in the diagnostics of endometrial cancer

INTRODUCTION

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression and contribute to the development of cancer. They have been shown to be stable in tissue samples and may be promising diagnostic biomarkers for endometrial cancer.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer between January 2017 and December 2017 was performed at the Royal Cornwall Hospital. Archived formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples were obtained from patients with endometrial cancer and healthy women. MicroRNA was isolated and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to detect expression levels of miRNAs.

RESULTS

A total of 76 women were included: 36 endometrial cancer patients, 40 healthy controls. A distinct panel of miR-200a, miR-200b, miR-200c, miR-205, and miR-182 showed an area under the curve of 0.958, sensitivity 92%, specificity 89%, positive predictive value of 89% (95% CI 82%-94%) and negative predictive value of 91% (95% CI 85%-96%) in diagnosing endometrial cancer. High miR-182 expression levels were significantly related to high-grade endometrioid tumors compared with low-grade tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy of miRNA for detecting endometrial cancer. In addition, miRNA contributed to an improvement in distinguishing between high-grade and low-grade endometrioid tumors.

Comparison of Snail1, ZEB1, E-Cadherin Expression Levels in HPV-Induced Cervical Cancer

Background:

Molecular profiling techniques are the rapid detection of biomarkers in the human papillomavirus (HPV) infected cells. We aimed to measure the expression level of three cell factors including Snail1, ZEB-1, and E-cadherin in cervical cancer (CC), precancerous and healthy samples, simultaneously, to find potential biomarkers.

Methods:

The expression level of the mentioned cell factors were investigated in 72 CC patients, precancerous patients, and healthy controls by using Real-Time PCR.

Results:

The results demonstrated a significant reduction in the expression level of E-cadherin in cancer and precancerous cases than that in healthy cases; whereas the expression level of ZEB-1 and Snail1 were upregulated in cancer and precancerous samples. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses shows the highest AUC value emerged for Snail1: 1(95% CI: 1-1) in comparing CC and healthy groups with a sensitivity of 100.0 % and specificity of 100.0%.

Conclusion:

The molecular biomarker Snail1 may be helpful to early diagnosis and prognosis of CC in the HPV-infected human populations. Considering the increased expression level of Snail1 in cancer and precancerous tissue compared to healthy tissue as well as the area under the ROC curve, Snail1 can be used for early detection of CC.

The Paradoxical Behavior of microRNA-211 in Melanomas and Other Human Cancers

Cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis leverage many regulatory agents, such as signaling molecules, transcription factors, and regulatory RNA molecules. Among these, regulatory non-coding RNAs have emerged as molecules that control multiple cancer types and their pathologic properties. The human microRNA-211 (MIR211) is one such molecule, which affects several cancer types, including melanoma, glioblastoma, lung adenocarcinomas, breast, ovarian, prostate, and colorectal carcinoma. Previous studies suggested that in certain tumors MIR211 acts as a tumor suppressor while in others it behaves as an oncogenic regulator. Here we summarize the known molecular genetic mechanisms that regulate MIR211 gene expression and molecular pathways that are in turn controlled by MIR211 itself. We discuss how cellular and epigenetic contexts modulate the biological effects of MIR211, which exhibit pleiotropic effects. For example, up-regulation of MIR211 expression down-regulates Warburg effect in melanoma tumor cells associated with an inhibition of the growth of human melanoma cells in vitro, and yet these conditions robustly increase tumor growth in xenografted mice. Signaling through the DUSP6-ERK5 pathway is modulated by MIR211 in BRAFV600E driven melanoma tumors, and this function is involved in the resistance of tumor cells to the BRAF inhibitor, Vemurafenib. We discuss several alternate but testable models, involving stochastic cell-to-cell expression heterogeneity due to multiple equilibria involving feedback circuits, intracellular communication, and genetic variation at miRNA target sties, to reconcile the paradoxical effects of MIR211 on tumorigenesis. Understanding the precise role of this miRNA is crucial to understanding the genetic basis of melanoma as well as the other cancer types where this regulatory molecule has important influences. We hope this review will inspire novel directions in this field.

Expression of Selected Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Transcription Factors in Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynecologic malignancy in developed countries. The aim of this study was to analyze the expression of SNAIL, SLUG, TWIST1, TWIST2, ZEB1, and ZEB 2 in primary tumor and the correlation with morphological and clinical characteristics of EC. The study included 158 patients with EC after surgical treatments: total hysterectomy and lymphadenectomy. The percentages of EC specimens testing positively for the EMT transcription factors were 84.5% for SNAIL, 92.2% for SLUG, 10.9% for TWIST1, 100% for TWIST2, 89% for ZEB1, and 98% for ZEB2. The expression of SLUG in patients with FIGO stage III or IV, type II EC, myometrial invasion ≥ 50% of the uterine wall thickness, and adnexal involvement and in patients with distant metastases was significantly higher. SLUG and ZEB2 expressions were identified as significant predictors of higher FIGO stages (III or IV) on univariate analysis. The overexpression of SLUG was a significant predictor of more aggressive type II EC, myometrial invasion ≥ 50% of the uterine wall thickness, and distant metastases on both univariate and multivariate analysis. Moreover, the overexpression of SLUG and ZEB2 was shown to be significant predictors of adnexal involvement on univariate analysis. ZEB 2 overexpression was identified in multivariate analysis as another independent predictor associated with a lesser likelihood of type II EC. Both univariate and multivariate analyses demonstrated that SLUG expression was the only predictor of 5-year survival in the study group. The overexpression of SLUG was associated with a significant increase in mortality hazard on univariate analysis and was shown to be a highly significant predictor of death on multivariate analysis. Conclusions. Selected proteins of the EMT pathway play a role in endometrial carcinogenesis; SLUG and ZEB2 expressions in the primary tumor might predict clinical outcomes in EC and drive therapeutic decisions regarding adjuvant treatment in patients with this malignancy.

USP43 directly regulates ZEB1 protein, mediating proliferation and metastasis of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors of the digestive tract. In this study, we had examined the biological role of USP43 in colorectal cancer. USP43 protein and mRNA abundance in clinical tissues and five cell lines were analyzed with quantitative real-time PCR test (qRT-PCR) and western blot. USP43 overexpression treated DLD1 cells and USP43 knockdown treated SW480 cells were used to study cell proliferation, migration, colony formation, invasion, and the expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) biomarkers. Moreover, ubiquitination related ZEB1 degradation was studied with qRT-PCR and western blot. The relationships between USP43 and ZEB1 were investigated with western blot, co-immunoprecipitation, migration, and invasion. USP43 was highly expressed in colorectal cancer tissues. USP43 overexpression and knockdown treatments could affect cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion, and the expression of EMT associated biomarkers. Moreover, USP43 can regulate ZEB1 degradation through ubiquitination pathway. USP43 could promote the proliferation, migration, and invasion of colorectal cancer. Meanwhile, USP43 can deubiquitinate and stabilize the ZEB1 protein, which plays an important role in the function of colorectal cancer.

Investigating the Role of Telomere and Telomerase Associated Genes and Proteins in Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the commonest gynaecological malignancy. Current prognostic markers are inadequate to accurately predict patient survival, necessitating novel prognostic markers, to improve treatment strategies. Telomerase has a unique role within the endometrium, whilst aberrant telomerase activity is a hallmark of many cancers. The aim of the current in silico study is to investigate the role of telomere and telomerase associated genes and proteins (TTAGPs) in EC to identify potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. Analysis of RNA-seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in EC (568 TTAGPs out of 3467) and ascertained DEGs associated with histological subtypes, higher grade endometrioid tumours and late stage EC. Functional analysis demonstrated that DEGs were predominantly involved in cell cycle regulation, while the survival analysis identified 69 DEGs associated with prognosis. The protein-protein interaction network constructed facilitated the identification of hub genes, enriched transcription factor binding sites and drugs that may target the network. Thus, our in silico methods distinguished many critical genes associated with telomere maintenance that were previously unknown to contribute to EC carcinogenesis and prognosis, including NOP56, WFS1, ANAPC4 and TUBB4A. Probing the prognostic and therapeutic utility of these novel TTAGP markers will form an exciting basis for future research.

The role and clinical significance of long noncoding RNA zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox two antisense RNA 1 in promoting osteosarcoma cancer cell proliferation, inhibiting apoptosis and increasing migration by regulating miR-145

We aimed to investigate the expression level of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox two antisense RNA 1 (ZEB2-AS1) in osteosarcoma and explore its possible regulatory mechanisms. Expression of lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 was detected by quantitative real-time PCR in 63 cancerous tissues and 25 adjacent normal mucosal tissues from patients with osteosarcoma. The correlation between the lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 level and clinicopathological characteristics of the osteosarcoma patients were evaluated, and 5-year overall survival (5OS) was also analyzed according to lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 expression. The ZEB2-AS1 and miR-145 recombinant expression vector was used to analyze their relationship in an in vitro cell system. Luciferase reporter gene assays and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were used to verify the interaction between ZEB2-AS1 and miR-145. The proliferation, apoptosis and migration of osteosarcoma cells were determined by Cell counting kit-8 assays, Annexin V-PI assays and transwell assays, respectively. A significantly increased level of lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 with a fold change of 3.86 was found in osteosarcoma tissues compared with control tissues (P < 0.001). The Chi-square test revealed that lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 expression in osteosarcoma was significantly different according to radiology classification (P = 0.018), TNM stage (P = 0.000) and survival status (P = 0.005). The 5OS was 18.4% and 52% in osteosarcoma patients with higher and lower lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 expression, respectively. Significantly increased ZEB2-AS1 expression was found in osteosarcoma cells, while decreased levels of miR-145 were confirmed in osteosarcoma tissues and cell lines compared to controls. Moreover, a negative correlation was found between the expression level of ZEB2-AS1 and miR-145 in osteosarcoma tissues (R2 = 0.71, P < 0.01). ZEB2-AS1 knockdown resulted in decreased osteosarcoma cell proliferation, increased apoptosis and reduced migration. In addition, negative regulation of miR-145 by ZEB2-AS1 in osteosarcoma cells was also observed, and the effects of ZEB2-AS1 on osteosarcoma cells were found to be regulated by miR-145. Significantly upregulated lncRNA ZEB2-AS1 expression in osteosarcoma patients influences the prognosis of patients, and ZEB2-AS1 accelerates tumorigenesis and osteosarcoma development by downregulating miR-145.

PHRF1 promotes migration and invasion by modulating ZEB1 expression

PHRF1 (PHD and RING finger domain-containing protein 1) suppresses acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) by promoting TGIF (TG-interacting factor) ubiquitination, while the PML-RARα protein interferes with PHRF1-mediated TGIF breakdown to facilitate APL. Beyond its role in APL tumorigenesis, PHRF1 contributes to non-homologous end-joining by linking H3K36 methylation and Nbs1 upon DNA damage insults. However, little is known regarding its function in tumor invasion. Here we highlight the unreported details of PHRF1 in the invasion of lung cancer cells by modulating the transcriptional level of ZEB1, a prominent regulator involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition. PHRF1 associated with the phosphorylated C-terminal repeat domain of Rpb1, the large subunit of RNA polymerase II, through its C-terminal Set2 Rpb1 Interacting (SRI) domain. Chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that PHRF1 bound to the proximal region adjacent to the transcription start site of ZEB1. SRI-deleted PHRF1 neither associated with Rpb1 nor increased ZEB1’s expression. Collectively, PHRF1 might take the stage at migration and invasion by modulating the expression of ZEB1.

ZEB1 modulates endometrial receptivity through epithelial-mesenchymal transition in endometrial epithelial cells in vitro

Zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in carcinogenesis, but its role in embryo implantation has not yet been identified. The present study sought to verify if ZEB1 plays a role in endometrial receptivity through regulation of EMT during embryo implantation. Endometrial epithelium from sixty patients in phase of the menstrual cycle (including proliferative and secretory phases) were collected for assessment of mRNA/protein expression. In human endometrial adenocarcinoma cell line RL95-2, ZEB1 expression was suppressed by using shRNA, and the cell function and mRNA/protein expression were evaluated. RL95-2 cells and human choriocarcinoma cell line JAR were co-cultured to establish embryo implantation model in vitro. The results showed that, ZEB1 was highly expressed at both mRNA and protein levels in human endometrium during mid-secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. Knockdown of ZEB1 expression in RL95-2 cells attenuated cell growth, migration, DNA replication, and altered expression of E-cadherin and vimentin at both mRNA and protein levels. Interestingly, knockdown of ZEB1 expression in RL95-2 cells potently suppressed JAR spheroid attachment in vitro (P < 0.01). Additionally, the. Conclusively, knockdown of ZEB1 suppressed embryo implantation in vitro, paralleled with alteration of EMT markers. ZEB1 is likely to modulate endometrial receptivity through promotion of EMT, that could be crucial for embryo implantation process.

Targeting Thyroid Receptor Interacting Protein 6 by MicroRNA-589-5p Inhibits Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion in Endometrial Carcinoma

Background: MicroRNA-589-5p (miR-589-5p) has been recently reported to be aberrantly regulated in hepatocellular carcinoma, but its functional role and molecular mechanisms still remains unknown in the endometrial carcinoma (EC) as one of the most common female malignancies. Methods: EC tissues and adjacent tissues were collected to determine the expression of miR-589-5p and thyroid receptor interacting protein 6 (TRIP6) using quantitative real time-PCR. Subsequently, two EC cell lines HEC-1B and AN3CA were transfected with miR-589-5p to achieve miR-589-5p overexpression. Using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), a wound healing assay and the Transwell assay, we analyzed cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that thyroid receptor interacting protein 6 (TRIP6) was a direct target of miR-589-5p. Results: We first observed that miR-589-5p was down-regulated in EC tissues compared with normal endometrial tissues. MiR-589-5p overexpression significantly suppressed EC cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Thyroid receptor interacting protein 6 (TRIP6) was a direct target of miR-589-5p. Besides, TRIP6 knockdown presented similar effects on cell proliferation, migration and invasion to miR-589-5p overexpression. Furthermore, TRIP6 knockdown efficiently enhanced the effects of miR-589-5p on the above cellular function. Moreover, miR-589-5p up-regulated E-cadherin expression, but down-regulated N-cadherin and Vimentin by targeting TRIP6. Conclusions: In summary, miR-589-5p might function as a tumor suppressor by targeting TRIP6, which will provide new insights into the molecular mechanism underlying the development of EC.

Prognostic value of ZEB-1 in solid tumors: a meta-analysis

Background

Zinc-finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB-1) plays crucial roles in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition during tumor carcinogenesis. Published studies have examined the potential value of ZEB-1 as a biomarker for the prognosis of cancer. Nevertheless, the prognostic significance of ZEB-1 in human solid tumor remains inconclusive. Therefore, we performed the present meta-analysis to evaluate the prognostic value of ZEB-1 in patients with solid tumors.

Methods

The 13 included studies (1616 patients) were exact electronic searched from Web of Science, PubMed and EBSCO until September 2018. Pooled hazard ratios (HR) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) for overall survival (OS) were analyzed through random or fixed effects models. Univariate and multivariate analyses were independently performed. Subgroup analyses, heterogeneity and publication bias were investigated to further enhance reliability.

Results

This research indicated that elevated expression of ZEB-1 significantly predicted worse OS in patients with solid tumors. In the univariate analysis, the pooled HR for OS was 1.66 (95% CI: 1.45–1.90; P < 0.01). Meanwhile, in multivariate analysis, the pooled HR for OS was 2.28 (95% CI: 1.58–3.30; P < 0.01). Begg’s funnel plot and Begg’s test did not show evidence of significant publication bias, both in univariate analysis and multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

High expression of ZEB-1 was associated with poorer OS, suggesting that ZEB-1 may be a potential biomarker for the prediction of prognosis, and a novel therapeutic target in human solid tumors.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12885-019-5830-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The transcription factor ZEB1 promotes an aggressive phenotype in prostate cancer cell lines

It has been reported that one of the factors that promotes tumoral progression is the abnormal activation of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition program. This process is associated with tumoral cells acquiring invasive and malignant properties and has the transcription factor zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) as one of its main activators. However, the role of ZEB1 in promoting malignancy in prostate cancer (PCa) is still unclear. Here, we report that ZEB1 expression correlates with Gleason score in PCa samples and that expression of ZEB1 regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition and malignant characteristics in PCa cell lines. The results showed that ZEB1 expression is higher in samples of higher malignancy and that overexpression of ZEB1 was able to induce epithelial-mesenchymal transition by upregulating the mesenchymal marker Vimentin and downregulating the epithelial marker E-Cadherin. On the contrary, ZEB1 silencing repressed Vimentin expression and upregulated E-Cadherin. ZEB1 expression conferred enhanced motility and invasiveness and a higher colony formation capacity to 22Rv1 cells whereas DU145 cells with ZEB1 silencing showed a decrease in those same properties. The results showed that ZEB1 could be a key promoter of tumoral progression toward advanced stages of PCa.

Estrogen-related receptor alpha induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition through cancer-stromal interactions in endometrial cancer

Estrogen-related receptor alpha (ERRα), which shares structural similarities with estrogen receptors, is associated with tumor progression in endometrial cancer, but little is known about the detailed underlying mechanism. We investigated whether ERRα, in cooperation with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α), could participate in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in endometrial cancer through cancer-stromal interactions. Two endometrial cancer cell lines, Ishikawa and HEC-1A, transfected with ERRα/PGC-1α expression plasmids or silenced for ERRα expression, were co-cultured with telomerase-transformed human endometrial stromal cells (T-HESCs). We found that EMT-associated factors including vimentin, Snail, and zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 were upregulated in cancer cells overexpressing ERRα/PGC-1α and that transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) was induced in T-HESCs in the same conditions. In contrast, ERRα knockdown suppressed EMT-associated factors in cancer cells and TGF-β in T-HESCs. ERRα/PGC-1α overexpression increased the expression of EMT-associated factors after TGF-β exposure; however, it decreased E-cadherin at protein level. ERRα knockdown suppressed EMT-associated factors in the presence of TGF-β, whereas E-cadherin remained unchanged. Matrigel invasion assays revealed that ERRα knockdown attenuated the stimulation of migration and invasion by TGF-β. These findings suggest that ERRα is a potential target for inhibiting TGF-β-induced EMT through cancer-stromal interactions in endometrial cancer.

circ-CSPP1 promotes proliferation, invasion and migration of ovarian cancer cells by acting as a miR-1236-3p sponge

Circular RNAs are known to participate in tumorigenesis through a variety of pathways, and as such, have potential to serve as molecular markers in tumor diagnosis and treatment. Here, using quantitative reverse transcription (qRT)-PCR, we showed that circ-CSPP1 is highly expressed in ovarian cancer (OC) tissues. Particularly, we detected circ-CSPP1 expression in three OC cell lines; of which, OVCAR3 and A2780 demonstrated higher levels of circ-CSPP1 expression, and CAOV3 showed lower circ-CSPP1 expression level. Subsequent silencing of circ-CSPP1 in OVCAR3 and A2780 cell lines revealed decreased cell growth, migration and invasion, while overexpression of circ-CSPP1 caused opposite results We also found that miR-1236-3p is a target of circ-CSPP1. Circ-CSPP1 silencing increased the expression of miR-1236-3p, and circ-CSPP1 overexpression decreased miR-1236-3p expression. MiR-1236-3p reportedly plays a tumor-suppressor role in OC by targeting zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1). In agreement with this, we showed that silencing circ-CSPP1 significantly decreased ZEB1 expression at both RNA and protein levels, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) related markers (E-cadherin and N-cadherin) varied with ZEB1 expression. Circ-CSPP1 silencing also caused decreased expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), both of which are related to tumorigenesis. Overexpression of circ-CSPP1 had opposite effects. In addition, we indicated that the tumor-promoting effect was inhibited after we transfected miR-1236-3p into circ-CSPP1 overexpressing OC cells. Altogether, our findings suggest that by acting as a miR-1236-3p sponge, circ-CSPP1 impairs the inhibitory effect of miR-1236-3p on ZEB1, which subsequently promotes EMT and OC development.

MicroRNA-508 is downregulated in clear cell renal cell carcinoma and targets ZEB1 to suppress cell proliferation and invasion

Recent studies have identified several microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) that are dysregulated in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), and their dysregulation may serve important roles in the occurrence and development of ccRCC. Therefore, understanding the expression pattern and functional roles of miRNAs in ccRCC may facilitate the identification of novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of ccRCC. In the current study, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to determine miR-508 expression levels in ccRCC tissue samples and cell lines. The cell counting kit-8 and in vitro Transwell invasion assays were used to examine the effects of miR-508 overexpression on ccRCC cell proliferation and invasion, respectively. In addition, bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter gene assays were used to investigate the underlying mechanism of miR-508 in ccRCC cells. Furthermore, the regulatory role of miR-508 on zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) mRNA and protein expression in ccRCC cells was investigated using RT-qPCR and western blot analysis, respectively. Additionally, the association between miR-508 and ZEB1 expression in ccRCC tissue samples was examined. Rescue experiments were performed to determine whether the tumor suppressive effects of miR-508 may be mediated by ZEB1 in ccRCC cells. The results of the current study demonstrated that miR-508 expression was significantly downregulated in ccRCC tissue samples and cell lines. In addition, miR-508 overexpression significantly decreased the proliferation and invasion of ccRCC cells. ZEB1 was identified as a direct target gene of miR-508 in ccRCC cells and the relative expression level of ZEB1 mRNA was significantly increased in ccRCC tissue samples. Furthermore, a negative correlation between miR-508 and ZEB1 expression was identified in ccRCC tissues. ZEB1 knockdown exhibited a functional role similar to miR-508 overexpression in ccRCC cells, and restoration of ZEB1 expression significantly reversed the inhibitory effects of miR-508 on the malignant phenotype of ccRCC cells. Taken together, the results of the current study demonstrated that miR-508 may serve a tumor suppressive role in ccRCC via direct targeting of ZEB1. MiR-508 may present a novel and efficient therapeutic target for the treatment of patients with ccRCC.

ZEB1 promotes tumorigenesis and metastasis in hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating the expression of vimentin

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide and its prognosis remains poor. Epithelial‑to‑mesenchymal transition (EMT)‑induced markers have emerged as key regulators of tumor development and progression in HCC. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of zinc finger E‑box‑binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) in the tumorigenesis of HCC and to elucidate the mechanism underlying the correlation between ZEB1 and vimentin (VIM). The expression levels of ZEB1 and VIM were assessed by immunohistochemistry, western blotting and reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis in HCC tissues and cell lines. The biological significance of ZEB1 was examined by downregulating the expression of ZEB1 in Huh‑7 cells. A luciferase reporter assay was used to investigate the association between ZEB1 and VIM. The expression levels of ZEB1 and VIM were higher in tumor tissues compared with those in adjacent normal tissues, and they were significantly associated with a poor prognosis in patients with HCC, whereas ZEB1 silencing led to the attenuation of HCC cell proliferation, invasion and migration. Furthermore, it was observed that ZEB1 was able to bind to a certain site in the VIM promoter and regulate the transcriptional activity of VIM. Therefore, the present study demonstrated that ZEB1 is a potential biomarker of the tumorigenesis and progression of HCC, and it may regulate transcription of the VIM gene.

Expression of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Proteins in Pancreatic Anaplastic (Undifferentiated) Carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to identify an association of pancreatic anaplastic carcinoma (APC) with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

METHODS

Resected APCs (n = 24) were examined to assess components of APCs, including carcinomatous, transitional, and sarcomatous regions. Analysis was performed based on the immunoreactivity of E-cadherin and 3 EMT-related proteins: Slug (zinc finger protein SNAI2), Twist (Twist-related protein 1), and Zeb1 (zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox 1). Expression score was determined based on staining intensity and stained area of the target cells. Finally, we performed a hierarchical clustering based on the expression pattern of E-cadherin and EMT-related proteins of the sarcomatous component.

RESULTS

The expression score of E-cadherin decreased in the order of sarcomatous > transitional > carcinomatous components (P < 0.01). Although there were significant differences in the immunohistochemical scores of Slug, Twist, and Zeb1 between carcinomatous and transitional components (P < 0.01), the significant difference in immunohistochemical score of Zeb1 between transitional and sarcomatous components was found (P < 0.05). Furthermore, APCs were divided into 2 subgroups based on the expression patterns of E-cadherin and EMT-related proteins (hierarchical clustering analysis). Consequently, these subgroups were distinguished by Twist expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of APC.

miRNA-641 inhibits the proliferation, migration, and invasion and induces apoptosis of cervical cancer cells by directly targeting ZEB1

Background

miRNAs have been found to be dysregulated in cervical cancer. The dysregulation of miRNA has been implicated in cervical carcinogenesis and progression. Therefore, further studies of the specific roles of deregulated miRNAs in cervical cancer and underlying molecular mechanisms may facilitate the identification of novel therapeutic techniques for patients with this disease. miRNA-641 (miR-641) was previously reported to serve an important role in lung cancer. However, the expression pattern and roles of miR-641 in cervical cancer remain unclear.

Method

In this study, the expression level of miR-641 in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines was detected using RT-qPCR. The influence of miR-641 upregulation in cervical cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion was evaluated using CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry assay, migration and invasion assays, respectively. In vivo tumor growth assay was utilized to determine the effect of miR-641 overexpression in the tumor growth of cervical cancer cells in vivo. The molecular mechanisms underlying the action of miR-641 in cervical cancer cells were also explored.

Results

We found that miR-641 expression was obviously decreased in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines, which strongly correlated with the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage and lymph node metastasis. Upregulation of miR-641 inhibited cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and reduced metastasis in cervical cancer. Additionally, bioinformatics analysis predicted ZEB1 as a novel target gene of miR-641. Notably, luciferase reporter assay, RT-qPCR, and Western blot analysis revealed that miR-641 decreased ZEB1 expression in cervical cancer cells by directly targeting its 3'-untranslated region. Furthermore, ZEB1 was upregulated in cervical cancer tissues, which was negatively correlated with miR-641 expression. Moreover, recovered ZEB1 expression attenuated the tumor suppressive action of miR-641 overexpression in the malignant phenotypes of cervical cancer cells. Besides, miR-641 could hinder cervical cancer tumor growth in vivo by inhibiting ZEB1.

Conclusion

These results indicate that miR-641 has tumor suppressive roles in the development of cervical cancer by directly targeting ZEB1, suggesting that miR-641 is a novel, effective therapeutic target for treating patients with this disease.

Impaired Localization of Claudin-11 in Endometriotic Epithelial Cells Compared to Endometrial Cells

Claudins are the major components of tight junctions and are often deregulated in human cancer, permitting escape of cancer cells along with the acquisition of invasive properties. Similarly, endometrial cells also show invasive capabilities; however, the role of tight junctions in endometriosis has only rarely been examined. In this study, we analyzed the protein expression and localization of claudin-7 and claudin-11 in human eutopic and ectopic endometrium and endometrial cell lines. We identified claudin-7 primarily at the basolateral junctions of the glandular epithelial cells in eutopic endometrium as well as in the ectopic lesions in nearly all glands and cysts. Quantification of claudin-7 localization by HSCORE showed a slight increase in peritoneal and deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) compared to eutopic endometrium. In contrast, claudin-11 was localized mainly in the apicolateral junctions in nearly all glandular epithelial cells of the eutopic endometrium. Interestingly, we observed a deregulation of claudin-11 localization to a basal or basolateral localization in ovarian (P < .001), peritoneal (P < .01), and DIE (P < .05) and a moderately decreased abundance in ovarian endometriosis. In endometrial cell lines, claudin-7 was only present in epithelial Ishikawa cells, and silencing by small-interfering RNA increased cell invasiveness. In contrast, claudin-11 could be demonstrated in Ishikawa and endometriotic 12Z and 49Z cells. Silencing of claudin-11 decreased invasiveness of 12Z slightly but significantly in 49Z. We suggest that although claudin-7 and claudin-11 can be found in nearly all eutopic and ectopic epithelial cells, the impaired localization of claudin-11 in ectopic endometrium might contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis.

Oncogenic HBXIP enhances ZEB1 through Sp1 to accelerate breast cancer growth

Background

There is abundant evidence to indicate that HBXIP functions as an oncoprotein and transcription co‐activator during the development and promotion of cancers. In multiple cancers, ZEB1 serves as a transcription activator to regulate gene expression. We explored the roles of ZEB1 in HBXIP‐induced breast cancer growth.

Methods

HBXIP regulation of ZEB1 was evaluated by reverse transcription PCR and immunoblotting. The stimulation of ZEB1 promoter by HBXIP and/or Sp1 was tested using luciferase reporter gene analysis. The alteration of cell proliferation mediated by HBXIP‐induced ZEB1 was tested using methyl‐thiazolyl‐tetrazolium and 5‐Ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) incorporation analysis. ZEB1 and HBXIP expression in human breast cancer tissues was analyzed using quantitative real‐time PCR. The relationship between HBXIP and ZEB1 was confirmed by Pearson's correlation coefficient.

Results

We observed dose‐dependent upregulation of ZEB1 by HBXIP in breast cancer cells. HBXIP can activate the ZEB1 promoter by interacting with transcription factor Sp1. Cell viability and EdU incorporation analysis showed that HBXIP could drive cell proliferation by enhancing ZEB1 in breast cancer. Using quantitative real‐time PCR, ZEB1 overexpression and a positive relationship between ZEB1 and HBXIP were observed in clinical breast cancer samples.

Conclusion

Oncogenic HBXIP controls the transcription regulation of ZEB1 by co‐activating Sp1, thereby accelerating breast cancer growth.

Lysophosphatidic acid triggers cathepsin B-mediated invasiveness of human endometriotic cells

Extracellular lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and the G-protein-coupled LPA receptors (LPAR) are involved in cell migration and invasion and found in the human endometrium. However, underlying mechanisms resulting in cellular invasion have been rarely investigated. We used stromal endometrial T-HESC, epithelial endometriotic 12Z, 49Z and Ishikawa cells. Interestingly, proliferation of T-HESC cells was strongly increased after LPA treatment, whereas the epithelial cell lines only showed a moderate increase. LPA increased invasion of 12Z and 49Z strongly and significantly. The LPAR inhibitor Ki16425 (LPAR1/3) attenuated significantly LPA-induced invasiveness of 12Z, which was confirmed by LPAR1 and LPAR3 siRNAs, showing that both LPA receptors contribute to invasiveness of 12Z cells. Investigation of cell invasion with an antibody-based protease array revealed mainly differences in cathepsins and especially cathepsin B between 12Z compared to the less invasive Ishikawa. Stimulation with LPA showed a time- and dose-dependent increased secretion of cathepsin B which was inhibited by the Gq inhibitor YM-254890 and Gi/o inhibitor pertussis toxin in the 12Z cells, again highlighting the importance of LPAR1/3. The activity of intracellular and secreted cathepsin B was significantly upregulated in LPA-treated samples. Inhibition of cathepsin B with the specific inhibitor CA074 significantly reduced LPA-increased invasion of 12Z. Our results reveal a novel role of LPA-mediated secretion of cathepsin B which stimulated invasion of endometriotic epithelial cells mainly via LPAR1 and LPAR3. These findings may deepen our understanding how endometriotic cells invade into ectopic sites, and provide new insights into the role of LPA and cathepsin B in cellular invasion.

Androgen receptor in triple negative breast cancer: A potential target for the targetless subtype

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents the 15-20% of all breast cancers (BC) and is characterized by a very aggressive behavior. Recent data suggest that TNBC is not a single disease, but it is rather an umbrella for different ontology-profiles such as basal like 1 and 2, mesenchymal, and the luminal androgen receptor (LAR). The LAR subtype is characterized by the expression of the Androgen Receptor (AR) and its downstream effects. Notwithstanding the role of the AR in several signaling pathways, its impact on a biological and clinical standpoint is still controversial. The LAR subtype has been associated with better prognosis, less chemotherapy responsiveness and lower pathologic complete response after neoadjuvant treatment. Clinical evidence suggests a role for anti-androgen therapies such as bicalutamide, enzalutamide and abiraterone, offering an interesting chemo-free alternative for chemo-unresponsive patients, and therefore potentially shifting current treatment strategies.

microRNA‑574 inhibits cell proliferation and invasion in glioblastoma multiforme by directly targeting zinc finger E‑box‑binding homeobox 1

Accumulated evidence has demonstrated that dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) contributes to tumourigenesis and tumour development of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Therefore, miRNAs may be promising candidates in the development of prognosis biomarkers and effective therapeutic targets for patients with GBM. A number of studies have reported that miRNA‑574 (miR‑574) is aberrantly expressed in multiple types of human cancers. However, the expression pattern, biological functions and molecular mechanism of miR‑574 in GBM are yet to be elucidated. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the expression level and biological functions of miR‑574 in GBM and the underlying molecular mechanisms. In the present study, miR‑574 levels were measured by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‑qPCR) and were demonstrated to be significantly downregulated in human GBM tissues and cell lines. Functional experiments indicated that restored expression of miR‑574 using mimics led to the inhibition of the cell proliferation and invasion of GBM cells, as determined by Cell Counting kit‑8 and Matrigel invasion assays, respectively. In addition, bioinformatics analysis predicted that zinc finger E‑box‑binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) may be a target of miR‑574. Subsequent RT‑qPCR, western blot analysis and luciferase reporter assays confirmed that ZEB1 was a direct target of miR‑574 in GBM. Additionally, ZEB1 was demonstrated to be upregulated and inversely correlated with miR‑574 expression in clinical GBM tissues. Rescue experiments demonstrated that overexpression of ZEB1 attenuated the inhibitory effects of miR‑574 on the proliferation and invasion of GBM cells. Overall, the results of the present study highlighted the potential tumour inhibitory roles of miR‑574 in GBM, thereby indicating that miR‑574 may be a novel and efficient therapeutic target for the treatment of patients with GBM.

Identification and functional analyses of differentially expressed metabolites in early stage endometrial carcinoma

Diagnosis of endometrial cancer is primarily based on symptoms and imaging, with early-stage disease being difficult to diagnose. Therefore, development of potential diagnostic biomarkers is required. Metabolomics, a quantitative measurement of the dynamic metabolism in living systems, can be applied to determine metabolite profiles in different disease states. Here, serum metabolomics was performed in 46 early stage endometrial cancer patients and 46 healthy volunteers. In addition, the effect of identified metabolites on tumor cell behavior (invasion, migration, proliferation, apoptosis and autophagy) was examined in endometrial cancer cell lines. Compared with controls, phenylalanine, indoleacrylic acid (IAA), phosphocholine and lyso-platelet-activating factor-16 (lyso-PAF) were differentially detected in patients. Functional analyses demonstrated that IAA, PAF and phenylalanine all dose-dependently inhibited tumor cell invasion and migration, and suppressed cell proliferation. PAF also induced tumor cell apoptosis and autophagy, while phenylalanine had no effect on apoptosis or autophagy. IAA triggered apoptosis and had a biphasic effect on autophagy: inhibiting autophagy with doses <1 mmol/L but inducing at 1 mmol/L. Interestingly, the alterations in proliferation, apoptosis and autophagy caused by 1 mmol/L IAA, were all reversed by the concomitant treatment of tryptophan (100 μmol/L). Phosphocholine inhibited tumor cell invasion and migration, and promoted cell proliferation and autophagy, all in a dose-dependent manner. Phosphocholine also protected cells from TNF-α-induced apoptosis. In conclusion, 4 serum metabolites were identified by serum metabolomics in endometrial cancer patients and functional analyses suggested that they may play roles in modulation of tumor cell behavior, although their exact mode of action still needs to be determined.

MicroRNA 302b-3p/302c-3p/302d-3p inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition and promotes apoptosis in human endometrial carcinoma cells

Background

Studies have shown that the microRNA miR-302 can affect the proliferation, migration and cell cycle progression of endometrial carcinoma (EC). miR-302 clusters have been shown to play an important role in the proliferation and differentiation of cancer cells and in their tumorigenicity.

Subjects and methods

In this study, we detected the expression of genes through quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). We detected the expression of proteins through Western blot. The Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)/propidium iodide (PI) double-staining assay were used to detect the ability of miR-302b-3p/302c-3p/302d-3p to affect the cell apoptosis. The CCK-8 were used to detect the ability of miR-302b-3p/302c-3p/302d-3p to affect the cell proliferation. The Cell cycle analysis were used to detect the ability of miR-302b-3p/302c-3p/302d-3p to affect the cell cycle. Finally, the wound healing assay was used to detect the ability of miR-302b-3p/302c-3p/302d-3p to impact cell migration.

Results

We found that miR-302b-3p/302c-3p/302d-3p of the miR-302 cluster was downregulated in EC, and it altered the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in the EC cell lines Ishikawa and HEC-1A. Western blot and the Annexin V- FITC/PI double-staining assay were used to detect the ability of miR-302b-3p/302c-3p/302d-3p to promote the apoptosis of Ishikawa and HEC-1A cells. In addition, qRT-PCR results showed that overexpression of miR-302b-3p/302c-3p/302d-3p significantly inhibited the expression of ZEB1, suppressed the expression of Bcl-2 and promoted the expression of BAX. The overexpression of miR-302b-3p/302c-3p/302d-3p inhibited the proliferation and migration of Ishikawa and HEC-1A cells. Cell cycle analysis showed that miR-302b-3p/302c-3p/302d-3p arrested cell cycle progression in the G0/G1 phase.

Conclusion

All results showed that miR-302b-3p/302c-3p/302d-3p can be used as a tumor suppressor in EC and is expected to be a new target for the treatment of EC.

Metformin inhibits 17β-estradiol-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition via βKlotho-related ERK1/2 signaling and AMPKα signaling in endometrial adenocarcinoma cells

The potential role of metformin in treating endometrial cancer remains to be explored. The current study investigated the role of metformin in 17β-estradiol-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in endometrial adenocarcinoma cells. We found that 17β-estradiol promoted proliferation and migration, attenuated apoptosis in both estrogen receptor (ER) positive and ER negative endometrial adenocarcinoma cells (Ishikawa and KLE cells, respectively). Metformin abolished 17β-estradiol-induced cell proliferation and reversed 17β-estradiol-induced EMT in Ishikawa cells. In addition, metformin increased the expression of βKlotho, a fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) coreceptor, and decreased ERK1/2 phosphorylation in both Ishikawa and KLE cells. Decreased expression of βKlotho was noted in human endometrial adenocarcinomas, and plasmid-driven expression of βKlotho in Ishikawa cells abolished 17β-estradiol-induced EMT via inhibiting ERK1/2 signaling. βKlotho expression and metformin show synergetic effects on the proliferation and the EMT in Ishikawa cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the anti-EMT effects of metformin could be partly abolished by introducing Compound C, a specific AMPKα signaling inhibitor. In conclusion, metformin abolishes 17β-estradiol-induced cell proliferation and EMT in endometrial adenocarcinoma cells by upregulating βKlotho expression, inhibiting ERK1/2 signaling, and activating AMPKα signaling. Our study provides novel mechanistic insight into the anti-tumor effects of metformin.

Prognostic significance of E-cadherin and ZEB1 expression in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm

There is an urgent need to investigate the genetic changes that occur in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN), which is a well-known precursor of pancreatic cancer. In this study, gene expression profiling was performed by removing unwanted variation to determine the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with malignant progression of IPMN. Among the identified DEGs, zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) and E-cadherin, a crucial regulator of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), was validated among identified DEGs.

A total of 76 fresh-frozen tissues were used for gene expression profiling and formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded blocks from 87 patients were obtained for immunohistochemical analysis. Loss of E-cadherin expression (p = 0.023, odd ratio [OR] = 4.923) and expression of ZEB1 in stromal cells (stromal ZEB1, p < 0.001, OR = 26.800) were significantly correlated with degree of dysplasia. The hazard of death was significantly increased in patients with loss of E-cadherin expression (hazard ratio [HR] = 13.718, p = 0.004), expression of epithelial ZEB1 (HR = 19.117, p = 0.001), and stromal ZEB1 (HR = 6.373, p = 0.043).

Based on the results of this study, loss of E-cadherin and expression of stromal ZEB1 are associated with increased risk of malignant progression. Epithelial and stromal ZEB1, as well as E-cadherin may be strong predictors of survival in patients with IPMN. Our finding suggests that these EMT markers may be utilized as potential prognosticators and may be used to improve and personalize treatment of IPMN.

microRNA‑211 suppresses the growth and metastasis of cervical cancer by directly targeting ZEB1

Of gynecological cancers, cervical cancer has the second highest incidence globally and is a major cause of cancer‑associated mortality in women. An increasing number of studies have reported that microRNAs (miRNAs) have important roles in cervical cancer carcinogenesis and progression through regulation of various critical protein‑coding genes. The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression and biological roles of miRNA‑211 (miR‑211) in cervical cancer and its underlying molecular mechanism. The results of reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‑qPCR) demonstrated that the expression levels of miR‑211 in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines were significantly lower compared with adjacent normal tissues and the normal human cervix epithelial cell line, respectively. Furthermore, upregulation of miR‑211 by transfection with miR‑211 mimics inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion of cervical cancer, as determined by MTT, Transwell and Matrigel assays, respectively. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay results indicated that zinc finger E‑box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) may be a direct target gene of miR‑211. In addition, RT‑qPCR and western blot analysis results demonstrated that miR‑211 overexpression markedly reduced ZEB1 expression at mRNA and protein levels in cervical cancer. Furthermore, the effects of ZEB1 downregulation on the proliferation, migration and invasion of cervical cancer cells were similar to those induced by miR‑211 overexpression. These results indicate that miR‑211 may act as a tumor suppressor in cervical cancer by directly targeting ZEB1. Therefore, miR‑211/ZEB1‑based targeted therapy may represent a potential novel treatment for patients with cervical cancer.

Long noncoding RNA ZEB1-AS1 epigenetically regulates the expressions of ZEB1 and downstream molecules in prostate cancer

Background

Emerging studies show that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. The lncRNA ZEB1 antisense 1 (ZEB1-AS1) derives from the promoter region of ZEB1 and we still know little about its expressions, roles and mechanisms.

Methods

RACE was used to obtain the sequence of ZEB1-AS1. RNA interference was used to decrease ZEB1-AS1 expression. Adenovirus expression vector was used to increase ZEB1-AS1 expression. CHIP and RIP were used to detect the epigenetic mechanisms by which ZEB1-AS1 regulated ZEB1. CCK8 assay, wound healing assay and transwell assay were used to measure proliferation and migration of prostate cancer cells.

Results

In this study, in prostate cancer cells, we found that RNAi-mediated downregulation of ZEB1-AS1 induced significant ZEB1 inhibition while artificial overexpression of ZEB1-AS1 rescued ZEB1 expression, which means that ZEB1-AS1 promotes ZEB1 expression. Also, ZEB1-AS1 indirectly inhibited miR200c, the well-known target of ZEB1, and upregulated miR200c’s target BMI1. Mechanistically, ZEB1-AS1 bound and recruited histone methyltransferase MLL1 to the promoter region of ZEB1, induced H3K4me3 modification therein, and activated ZEB1 transcription. Biologically, ZEB1-AS1 promoted proliferation and migration of prostate cancer cells.

Conclusions

Collectively, ZEB1-AS1 functions as an oncogene in prostate cancer via epigenetically activating ZEB1 and indirectly regulating downstream molecules of ZEB1.

MicroRNA‑643 regulates the expression of ZEB1 and inhibits tumorigenesis in osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is among the most malignant types of tumor worldwide and has become a leading contributor to tumor incidence, particularly in adolescents. Resistance to conventional treatment and the complexity of osteosarcoma tumorigenesis has resulted in high mortality rates. MicroRNAs are a class of noncoding RNAs, which regulate numerous biological processes. However, the involvement of miR‑643 in osteosarcoma remains to be elucidated. In the present study, reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction, luciferase reporter assay, invasion assay, viability assay, western blot analysis and in vivo implantation were performed to analyze the action of miR‑643 in osteosarcoma. The results demonstrated that miR‑643 inhibited the progression of osteosarcoma and acted as a potential tumor suppressor. The expression of miR‑643 was downregulated in osteosarcoma tissues and cell lines. In addition, miR‑643 transfection significantly impaired the proliferation and invasion of osteosarcoma cells. The present study also identified Zinc finger E‑box‑binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) as a direct target of miR‑643, and the ectopic expression of ZEB1 counteracted the effect of miR‑643 transfection. A significant inverse correlation was also found between the expression of miR‑643 and ZEB1. A low expression of miR‑643 or a high expression of ZEB1 was associated with poor patient survival rates. The results of the present study suggested that the decreased expression of miR‑643 may be involved in the mechanism underlying the development of osteosarcoma. The intricate interactions between miR‑643 and ZEB1 may serve as a potential therapeutic target in osteosarcoma oncogenesis.

The role of vitamin D in hepatic metastases from colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents a significant health burden worldwide, comprising approximately 10% of annual cancer cases globally. Hepatic metastases are the most common site of CRC metastasis, and are the leading cause of death in CRC patients. There is strong epidemiologic evidence for an inverse association between vitamin D status and risk of CRC; however, the role of vitamin D in the natural history of liver metastases has not yet been investigated. Several researchers have proposed hallmarks of metastases; crucially, metastases can be blocked by interrupting just one rate-limiting step. Vitamin D status has been implicated in each proposed hallmark of metastasis. The aim of this review is to examine the potential role for vitamin D in reducing the development of hepatic metastases from CRC and outline the candidate mechanisms by which vitamin D may mediate these effects. The results of ongoing randomised intervention trials are eagerly awaited to determine whether addressing vitamin D insufficiency in CRC patients could reduce the occurrence of liver metastases, and the consequent morbidity and mortality.

Inhibition of ZEB1 leads to inversion of metastatic characteristics and restoration of paclitaxel sensitivity of chronic chemoresistant ovarian carcinoma cells

ZEB1, a member of the zinc-finger E-box binding homeobox family, is considered to play a crucial role in cancer progression and metastasis. In the current study, we investigated the role of ZEB1 in metastasis and chronic chemoresistance of epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) cells. Using several EOC and acquired paclitaxel (PTX)-resistant EOC cell lines, we investigated whether silencing ZEB1 led to a reversal of the chemoresistance and metastatic potential in vitro and in vivo. Subsequently, the expression of ZEB1 in EOC tissues and its association with the oncologic outcome were investigated. According to the immunohistochemical staining of EOC tissues, as the positivity of ZEB1 expression was increased, the overall survival of EOC patients became poorer (P = 0.0022 for trend). Additionally, cell migration and invasion were significantly decreased by ZEB1 silencing in both PTX-sensitive and PTX- resistant cells. Although PTX-sensitivity was not changed by silencing ZEB1 in parental EOC cells, the depletion of ZEB1 made the PTX-resistant EOC cells more sensitive to PTX treatment. In an animal model, mice injected with ZEB1-silencing PTX-resistant cells survived for longer than the control cell-injected mice. Although the intravenous injection of PTX did not affect the tumor weight of shCtrl cells, the tumor weight of shZEB1 cells was significantly reduced by PTX treatment. The current data indicate the possible involvement of ZEB1 in the metastasis and paclitaxel resistance of EOC, and suggest that targeting this molecule may reverse the malignant potential and improve the oncologic outcome for EOC patients.